India, New Zealand to cooperate in civil aviation sector

New Delhi: India and New Zealand today decided to promote and develop training and technical cooperation in civil aviation sector including accepting of each other's aeronautical products and licenses.

A document, called the 'Arrangement for Cooperation on Civil Aviation', was signed by Civil Aviation Secretary K N Shrivastava and New Zealand High Commissioner Jan Henderson.

Under the Arrangement, the two countries would promote and support development of training and technical cooperation in aviation and carry out activities like exchange of experts or instructors for training, acceptance of licenses and aeronautical products and aviation services.

A joint committee would be formed to determine and oversee mutually acceptable cooperation and develop a Programme of Cooperation, an official spokesperson said.

Singh said the designated airlines of both the countries were entitled to seven services per week in each direction but neither side was operating at present.

Noting that a sizeable population of Indian origin stayed in New Zealand, he said the growth of air services would greatly facilitate in enhancing cordial relationship, connectivity, trade and tourism.

New Zealand Minister Joyce said his country's aviation companies were already making their mark in India. "This arrangement will see India and New Zealand commit to further exploring exciting opportunities for co-operation in the aviation sector."

New Zealand has one of the highest number of aircraft and helicopters per capita in the world. Aviation products and services developed in New Zealand are already being used in 80 countries.